yocontrarian :: An F for Effort

By Yoni Cohen on Sun Mar 09, 2008 at 11:18:54 AM EST

North Carolina will not win the 2008 NCAA Tournament.

Roy Williams' experienced Tar Heels were my preseason pick for the national title. But during the second half of last night's game at Duke, the Tar Heels didn't demonstrate the heart of a champion.

Yes, North Carolina won. At Cameron Indoor. For the ACC regular season title. After shutting the Blue Devils down for the final five minutes plus.

But Mike Krzyzewski's club wanted it more. A lot more. For most if not all of the second half, the Blue Devils outhustled the Tar Heels.

Now we know why Tyler Hansbrough is known as "Psycho T." It is because his inspired play, last night included, stands in stark contrast to "lethargic UNC."

Hansbrough is the exception to North Carolina's heartless rule over college basketball. A reign of terror I now predict will come to an end during March Madness -- when grit, determination and toughness count for more than pure talent and experience.

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yocontrarian :: An F for Effort | 1 comment (1 topical, 0 hidden)

Glad You Are Back! I Disagree! (none / 0)

I think you make a fair point about the effort in the second half. Especially early on. Still, that the Blue Devils out-hustled Carolina might say more about them. Duke's 16 offensive rebounds were behind the comeback but Carolina's preference of getting out on the break instead of boxing out always contributes to second shots. In the first half the Tar Heel's defensive effort was outstanding and Carolina got just about every rebound in the last few minutes. Defense doesn't come easy for this team and Carolina's 15 blocks don't support your arguement either. They might not win the title this season, but I don't think it will be a lack of grit, determination, and toughness that defines this team.

by dbartholomew on Mon Mar 10, 2008 at 02:58:06 PM EST
yocontrarian :: An F for Effort | 1 comment (1 topical, 0 hidden)
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